CDL Truck Driver in New Jersey
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NJ. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, New Jersey.
Jobs (NJ)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a cdl truck driver in New Jersey
To become a CDL Truck Driver in New Jersey, individuals must obtain a Commercial Driver License (CDL) from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). Key steps include completing FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), passing a general knowledge test and a skills test, and submitting a CDL application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old for intrastate driving or 21 for interstate commerce or certain endorsements, and possess a valid DOT medical certificate. While New Jersey does not have CDL reciprocity with other states, out-of-state CDL holders can transfer their license by meeting specific requirements, including a vision test and submitting necessary documentation.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for New Jersey. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist New Jersey requirements
| Licensing body | New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) |
| State license | Required |
| Education | FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) |
| Exam | CDL General Knowledge and Skills Test ($125) |
| Application fee | $42 |
| Renewal | Every 4.0 years |
| Notes | Applicants must be 18+ for intrastate or 21+ for interstate commerce, hazardous materials, or passenger endorsements. A valid DOT medical certificate is required and must be kept current. Fees are approximate: $125 for the examination test receipt (which covers knowledge tests), and $42 for the 4-year CDL license. Endorsements cost an additional $2 each. Skills test fees are paid to third-party providers and vary. Federal Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) is required for new applicants for Class A or B CDLs, or for certain endorsements, prior to taking the skills test. Background checks and fingerprinting are required for school bus and hazardous materials endorsements. |
workspace_premium New Jersey license tiers
New Jersey offers multiple tiers of cdl truck driver licensing:
| Tier | Hours required |
|---|---|
| Class A | N/A |
| Class B | N/A |
| Class C | N/A |
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleNew Jersey license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk